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The Evolution of Australia's Property and Investment Landscape

9/26/2025, 4:49:41 PM

Investment in Retail Property Funds

QIC’s rebranded QIC Everyday Retail Fund (QERF) has received significant backing from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and Prime Super, with investments aimed at enhancing community-focused retail centres. The fund currently manages A$525 million (€294 million) in assets, including six sub-regional and convenience centres across south-east Queensland and Sydney’s Northern Beaches. QIC plans to expand the portfolio to A$1.5 billion, with a focus on high-quality retail opportunities. Michael McQueen from Prime Super emphasized the investment's potential for defensive income and value-add opportunities, while CEFC's Michael Di Russo noted the fund's role in promoting carbon reductions in retail assets.

The Rise of Private Credit

The Australian investment landscape is witnessing a shift towards private credit as traditional banks reduce their lending activities. This trend, described by Darren Connolly, CEO of InvestmentMarkets, reflects a broader global movement where non-bank entities are increasingly filling the lending gap. Andrew McVeigh, managing partner at Remara, highlighted that regulatory changes and market evolution have created opportunities for private credit, particularly in real estate and SME lending. The Australian credit market, valued at A$3.8 trillion, is seeing a growing share of lending from non-banks, which is expected to continue as investors seek yield and diversification.

Demand for Development Land in South Australia

Colliers research indicates a robust demand for development land in South Australia, with approximately $60 million in transactions recorded in 2025. Residential and accommodation sites accounted for 89% of these transactions, driven by population growth and government incentives aimed at increasing housing supply. Rhys Newman from Colliers noted that the market's confidence persists despite economic challenges, with strong interest in newly built properties and mixed-use developments. The competition from the aged care sector for land further underscores the growing need for diverse housing solutions.

Influential Figures in Australia's Property Sector

Several key figures are shaping Australia's property landscape amid these changes. Greg Goodman, CEO of Goodman Group, is expanding the company’s global footprint, while Clare O’Neil, the federal housing minister, is steering national housing policy to address supply shortages. David Harrison of Charter Hall is leveraging institutional capital to navigate market cycles, and Peter Tulip from the Centre for Independent Studies is advocating for zoning reforms to alleviate housing supply constraints. Their strategies will significantly influence the balance of growth, affordability, and supply in the coming years.

Conclusion: A Shifting Landscape

Australia's property and investment sectors are undergoing significant transformations driven by evolving market dynamics, regulatory changes, and demographic shifts. The rise of private credit, increased demand for residential development, and the strategic maneuvers of influential leaders are all contributing to a complex yet promising investment environment. As these trends continue to unfold, stakeholders must remain vigilant and adaptable to capitalize on emerging opportunities.